On the west end of 30A in the old Blue Orleans location is Ken's American Bistrot. I've eaten there twice now and have meant to post a review for a while. So here's the scoop:
There isn't anything exceptional about the Ken's venue itself. It's a small but clean space in somewhat of a "strip mall? on the opposite side of 30A from Big Daddy's Bike Shop. But once you try the food you'll quickly forgive and forget any shortcomings of its location.
The first time I ate at Ken's was late in 2009. I had my two kids with me and we couldn't reach consensus on what to eat from our list of usual spots so we decided to give Ken's a chance.
I was really hungry so I went with a very wholesome chicken fried steak dinner served with mashed potatoes. The kids each ordered chicken fingers.
While we waited for our food I was evidently very thirsty because I kept finishing diet cokes about one every 3 minutes. And each time I nearly finished one there was a fresh one waiting for me. No one asked. No one made comments about it to call attention to me and no one was annoyed that I was so thirsty. They just happily kept bringing them out and I really appreciated that.
The food arrived in a timely fashion. Let me just say- they far exceeded my expectations. My chicken fried steak was a huge portion (I'm a big eater) and it looked, smelled and tasted like mom or grandma worked on it all day. Everything seemed fresh and homemade- not like Cisco or some other food service prepared the meal.
So here is a little secret for restaurateurs-
Just like many guests weigh the cleanliness of your bathrooms very heavily when forming their net opinions of your establishment, there are many parents like myself who judge you by the food you serve our kids. I was really impressed by the chicken fingers they brought my little dudes. Again- seemed homemade like mom or grandma made them. But wait, it gets better. When they brought the bill I found out that kids under 3 eat free. So not only were the wholesome kids meals way way above par but one of them was on the house. Wow!
So if I have a really good experience or a really bad experience at a new place in Sowal I will try to go again just to make sure it wasn't a fluke before I share a review here. Only problem is Ken's closed for a little while during the off season so I didn't get back until last week.
For my second visit I went alone and I had a bowl of crab bisque and an order of wings. Both were incredible! The bisque was rich and warm and great overall. The wings were the best I've had in Sowal. They were giant- all meat. They had a bit of an Asian flare to them and were just the right spice. I would have ordered something else but the soup and app filled me up and I am a pretty big eater.
Anywho, the verdict-
Ken's is 2 for 2 and I officially recommend Sowallers to give them a shot.
Normally, my review would end here but I feel the need to add the following:
The restaurant business is tough, especially here in Sowal. Sometimes it isn't enough to be great here and that is such a shame. Given that both times I ate at Ken's my party was the only one in the place I worry that this place isn't getting a fair shake. And I don't want to lose this gem.
SO- if you live here or are visiting, certainly go to your favorite destination places (e.g. Red Bar). But for that one night when you are taking it easy- give Ken's a shot. Also- they do carry out and have the only drive thru window on 30A.
I personally think these guys could create a niche by being THE take out/delivery place of the area. But whether you it eat there or eat it at home- you should seriously consider eating their food. And when you do, let 'em know you found out about them in a favorable review on Sowal.com
Enjoy,
Geo
Replies
35
Beach Lover
We had hoped to try this place during our February trip, but it didn't reopen until right before we left. Hopefully, the timing will work out better next year.
Beach Fanatic
Geo - I am having a bit of trouble remembering where Blue Orleans was (though I went there a couple of times). Are they in Blue Mt Beach, east of Sally's? Can't place the bike shop, unless they are the one in the plaza with For The Health of It...
Beach Fanatic
Geo - I am having a bit of trouble remembering where Blue Orleans was (though I went there a couple of times). Are they in Blue Mt Beach, east of Sally's? Can't place the bike shop, unless they are the one in the plaza with For The Health of It...
Yep, across from For The Health of It.
Beach Fanatic
I had great food at Ken's last fall. But have to admit, I would enjoy the place and be more apt to return, if much more thought had gone in to designing the space. Don't know what undefinable quality it is that makes a place both intimate and convivial, that manages acoustics and creates a pleasant
environment, but it is notably missing here. Paying some $ for a good restaurant designer seems like a great idea. It's hard to enjoy fabulous food in a drab environment. No offense intended.
environment, but it is notably missing here. Paying some $ for a good restaurant designer seems like a great idea. It's hard to enjoy fabulous food in a drab environment. No offense intended.
Beach Fanatic
Geo,
Thx for the review... I've been wanting to try Ken's (particularly the chicken fried steak!!).
BTW it's an excellent call out that they have a drive thru window... since parking in that strip is at a premium I can see myself doing a call-in/drive-by.
Thx for the review... I've been wanting to try Ken's (particularly the chicken fried steak!!).
BTW it's an excellent call out that they have a drive thru window... since parking in that strip is at a premium I can see myself doing a call-in/drive-by.
Beach Fanatic
On the west end of 30A in the old Blue Orleans location is Ken's American Bistrot. I've eaten there twice now and have meant to post a review for a while. So here's the scoop:
There isn't anything exceptional about the Ken's venue itself. It's a small but clean space in somewhat of a "strip mall” on the opposite side of 30A from Big Daddy's Bike Shop. But once you try the food you'll quickly forgive and forget any shortcomings of its location.
The first time I ate at Ken's was late in 2009. I had my two kids with me and we couldn't reach consensus on what to eat from our list of usual spots so we decided to give Ken's a chance.
I was really hungry so I went with a very wholesome chicken fried steak dinner served with mashed potatoes. The kids each ordered chicken fingers.
While we waited for our food I was evidently very thirsty because I kept finishing diet cokes about one every 3 minutes. And each time I nearly finished one there was a fresh one waiting for me. No one asked. No one made comments about it to call attention to me and no one was annoyed that I was so thirsty. They just happily kept bringing them out and I really appreciated that.
The food arrived in a timely fashion. Let me just say- they far exceeded my expectations. My chicken fried steak was a huge portion (I'm a big eater) and it looked, smelled and tasted like mom or grandma worked on it all day. Everything seemed fresh and homemade- not like Cisco or some other food service prepared the meal.
So here is a little secret for restaurateurs-
Just like many guests weigh the cleanliness of your bathrooms very heavily when forming their net opinions of your establishment, there are many parents like myself who judge you by the food you serve our kids. I was really impressed by the chicken fingers they brought my little dudes. Again- seemed homemade like mom or grandma made them. But wait, it gets better. When they brought the bill I found out that kids under 3 eat free. So not only were the wholesome kids meals way way above par but one of them was on the house. Wow!
So if I have a really good experience or a really bad experience at a new place in Sowal I will try to go again just to make sure it wasn't a fluke before I share a review here. Only problem is Ken's closed for a little while during the off season so I didn't get back until last week.
For my second visit I went alone and I had a bowl of crab bisque and an order of wings. Both were incredible! The bisque was rich and warm and great overall. The wings were the best I've had in Sowal. They were giant- all meat. They had a bit of an Asian flare to them and were just the right spice. I would have ordered something else but the soup and app filled me up and I am a pretty big eater.
Anywho, the verdict-
Ken's is 2 for 2 and I officially recommend Sowallers to give them a shot.
Normally, my review would end here but I feel the need to add the following:
The restaurant business is tough, especially here in Sowal. Sometimes it isn't enough to be great here and that is such a shame. Given that both times I ate at Ken's my party was the only one in the place I worry that this place isn't getting a fair shake. And I don't want to lose this gem.
SO- if you live here or are visiting, certainly go to your favorite destination places (e.g. Red Bar). But for that one night when you are taking it easy- give Ken's a shot. Also- they do carry out and have the only drive thru window on 30A.
I personally think these guys could create a niche by being THE take out/delivery place of the area. But whether you it eat there or eat it at home- you should seriously consider eating their food. And when you do, let 'em know you found out about them in a favorable review on Sowal.com
Enjoy,
Geo
geo, that's a great review. we live very close to ken's but have not been in yet. we will definitely give it a try. i would love all the local restaurants to succeed. i did walk in there once but was a bit turned off by the drabness of the place. however, we should try it out before judging!
Edited
Beach Fanatic
Maybe we should get up a painting party at Ken's! BYOP!
SoWal Expert
I think that Ken's tends to get overlooked because of the location, lack of publicity, and confusion about hours/open times.
I have been meaning to check it out as several Sowallers have given it positive reviews, but keep forgetting.
I have been meaning to check it out as several Sowallers have given it positive reviews, but keep forgetting.
Beach Fanatic
I will mention it to my co-workers - in fact, I think we have a menu. I will also mention it to ShallowsFuzz as they tend to eat out more than my bunch does.
Beach Fanatic
Yep. Its good. I haven't been back since they re-opened but will return.
Beach Fanatic
Thanks Geo..Ken's is on the list!
Beach Comber
Two words. Fried Eggplant 
Beach Lover
Thanks for all the good review (especially the fried eggplant!)...we'll have to check them out!
Beach Fanatic
Well, here is another one to add to the mix. Betty and I wanted a light meal somewhere close last night so we went to Ken's.
Our waiter, Brandon (sp?) was quick to greet us and was very attentive to our wants and needs. That is to say the service was superlative during the entire meal.
We both ordered the Crab Bisque and decided to split an order of Eggplant topped with lump crab and crawfish. While waiting for our soup, bread and butter was brought and it was delicious. Then came the Crab Bisque and it, as it was previously when I had it, one of the best soups I have ever had. The eggplant dish was to die for, as the saying goes.
The only disturbing event about the experience was the fact there were only three groups in at the time. It was early on a Friday night so I can only hope it improved over the evening as I would hate to see such a convenient and excellent place close for lack of business.
One more thing. We found the prices for what we ordered to be especially reasonable, and on 30A, no less. As the saying goes, two thumbs up for Ken's.
Our waiter, Brandon (sp?) was quick to greet us and was very attentive to our wants and needs. That is to say the service was superlative during the entire meal.
We both ordered the Crab Bisque and decided to split an order of Eggplant topped with lump crab and crawfish. While waiting for our soup, bread and butter was brought and it was delicious. Then came the Crab Bisque and it, as it was previously when I had it, one of the best soups I have ever had. The eggplant dish was to die for, as the saying goes.
The only disturbing event about the experience was the fact there were only three groups in at the time. It was early on a Friday night so I can only hope it improved over the evening as I would hate to see such a convenient and excellent place close for lack of business.
One more thing. We found the prices for what we ordered to be especially reasonable, and on 30A, no less. As the saying goes, two thumbs up for Ken's.
Beach Lover
I find it interesting reading all the rave reviews about Ken's and it being empty or almost empty every time I am by there. I live very close by Ken's and continuously eyeball all the businesses on 30A for crowds and activity. It's true Ken's has some of the best food on 30A. It's true the prices are right. It's true the service has always been attentive and professional. When I see the over-whelming crowds at some of the other spots who don't exhibit near the same level of service, price for value, and really good food, I ask myself why? Is it because it is not a place to drink? That is very big out here, so that's possibly one of the reasons. The interior and decor aren't funky or swank enough for the 30A crowd? Let's admit you won't be swept away by the interior design, but it's not terrible. Could it be no one seems to know Ken or even if there is a Ken? Note to owners, get out into this community and let everyone know who you are. It is essential. And lastly, is it the right menu for the right people in the right area? Seems fine to me and they have a few items you can't even find around here. Deciding when, what, and where to eat often done because of habit, a particular craving or desire, convenience, etc. There are many reasons. I'm pulling for Ken's and hope they make it. Stop by and try it just once and see for yourself. The crab bisque is the best on 30A (that I've had) and the chicken fried steak, well if you are a fan of CFS you'll agree The Best.
Beach Fanatic
I meant to post the same thing a couple of weeks ago.
The place is outstanding...the food is always good.
Sowallers give them a chance and spread the word
The place is outstanding...the food is always good.
Sowallers give them a chance and spread the word
Beach Fanatic
try it - you'll like it!!
went to ken's today after reading this thread. OUTSTANDING!!! crab bisque, sliced pork sandwich for mr. yummy, spinach salad for me. wonderful service. we will try dinner next time - just a really great new place for 30-A. yummmmm.
went to ken's today after reading this thread. OUTSTANDING!!! crab bisque, sliced pork sandwich for mr. yummy, spinach salad for me. wonderful service. we will try dinner next time - just a really great new place for 30-A. yummmmm.
Beach Comber
My wife and I have eaten at Ken's for lunch three times, and each meal we've had there has been outstanding. The cheeseburger is 30A's best. It's huge, juicy and delicious. And the French fries are easily my favorite on 30A as well. My wife has had the crab bisque and the chili - both were fantastic. The bowl of chili is easily enough food for two people. The crab bisque was rich and tasted homemade.
I ate there a few weeks ago and had the sliced pork sandwich, which was terrific. It also came with a big portion of tasty French fries.
We work right down the street so it's an easy stop for us for lunch. If you haven't tried Ken's yet, I highly recommend to give it a shot. You won't be disappointed. Ken's is easily my favorite lunch spot on 30A.
Now I just need to get over there for dinner.
I ate there a few weeks ago and had the sliced pork sandwich, which was terrific. It also came with a big portion of tasty French fries.
We work right down the street so it's an easy stop for us for lunch. If you haven't tried Ken's yet, I highly recommend to give it a shot. You won't be disappointed. Ken's is easily my favorite lunch spot on 30A.
Now I just need to get over there for dinner.
Edited
Beach Fanatic
I'm dying to go for chicken fried steak...
is that on the lunch menu or just dinner?
is that on the lunch menu or just dinner?
Beach Crab
Hello from Ken's
Hello everyone, this is Lee ( Owner /Chef) of Ken's American Bistrot.
I want to thank everyone who has posted comments here. It is a great help to know what people think of our little restaurant. The name Ken's was taken from my late father who enjoyed food more than anyone that I ever knew and is the inspiration of the restaurant. My philosophy on food is simple. Its clean, simple, uncomplicated good food. You can get anything that is on our menu lunch and dinner, and we encourage you to come and try us out. We do not have our beer and wine license as of yet, but we do encourage you to bring your own. We do not charge a corking fee. Hope to see you soon.
Hello everyone, this is Lee ( Owner /Chef) of Ken's American Bistrot.
I want to thank everyone who has posted comments here. It is a great help to know what people think of our little restaurant. The name Ken's was taken from my late father who enjoyed food more than anyone that I ever knew and is the inspiration of the restaurant. My philosophy on food is simple. Its clean, simple, uncomplicated good food. You can get anything that is on our menu lunch and dinner, and we encourage you to come and try us out. We do not have our beer and wine license as of yet, but we do encourage you to bring your own. We do not charge a corking fee. Hope to see you soon.
Beach Lover
lunch and dinner
You can order the chicken fried steak for lunch and dinner.
I'm dying to go for chicken fried steak...
is that on the lunch menu or just dinner?
You can order the chicken fried steak for lunch and dinner.
Beach Fanatic
After passing by kens for a yr i decided to try it tonight. i had the cheesburger and it was very good.the whole family loved the food and we'll be back. brandon was the waiter and he was awesome.overall very impressed
Beach Fanatic
On the west end of 30A in the old Blue Orleans location is Ken's American Bistrot. I've eaten there twice now and have meant to post a review for a while. So here's the scoop:
There isn't anything exceptional about the Ken's venue itself. It's a small but clean space in somewhat of a "strip mall? on the opposite side of 30A from Big Daddy's Bike Shop. But once you try the food you'll quickly forgive and forget any shortcomings of its location.
The first time I ate at Ken's was late in 2009. I had my two kids with me and we couldn't reach consensus on what to eat from our list of usual spots so we decided to give Ken's a chance.
I was really hungry so I went with a very wholesome chicken fried steak dinner served with mashed potatoes. The kids each ordered chicken fingers.
While we waited for our food I was evidently very thirsty because I kept finishing diet cokes about one every 3 minutes. And each time I nearly finished one there was a fresh one waiting for me. No one asked. No one made comments about it to call attention to me and no one was annoyed that I was so thirsty. They just happily kept bringing them out and I really appreciated that.
The food arrived in a timely fashion. Let me just say- they far exceeded my expectations. My chicken fried steak was a huge portion (I'm a big eater) and it looked, smelled and tasted like mom or grandma worked on it all day. Everything seemed fresh and homemade- not like Cisco or some other food service prepared the meal.
So here is a little secret for restaurateurs-
Just like many guests weigh the cleanliness of your bathrooms very heavily when forming their net opinions of your establishment, there are many parents like myself who judge you by the food you serve our kids. I was really impressed by the chicken fingers they brought my little dudes. Again- seemed homemade like mom or grandma made them. But wait, it gets better. When they brought the bill I found out that kids under 3 eat free. So not only were the wholesome kids meals way way above par but one of them was on the house. Wow!
So if I have a really good experience or a really bad experience at a new place in Sowal I will try to go again just to make sure it wasn't a fluke before I share a review here. Only problem is Ken's closed for a little while during the off season so I didn't get back until last week.
For my second visit I went alone and I had a bowl of crab bisque and an order of wings. Both were incredible! The bisque was rich and warm and great overall. The wings were the best I've had in Sowal. They were giant- all meat. They had a bit of an Asian flare to them and were just the right spice. I would have ordered something else but the soup and app filled me up and I am a pretty big eater.
Anywho, the verdict-
Ken's is 2 for 2 and I officially recommend Sowallers to give them a shot.
Normally, my review would end here but I feel the need to add the following:
The restaurant business is tough, especially here in Sowal. Sometimes it isn't enough to be great here and that is such a shame. Given that both times I ate at Ken's my party was the only one in the place I worry that this place isn't getting a fair shake. And I don't want to lose this gem.
SO- if you live here or are visiting, certainly go to your favorite destination places (e.g. Red Bar). But for that one night when you are taking it easy- give Ken's a shot. Also- they do carry out and have the only drive thru window on 30A.
I personally think these guys could create a niche by being THE take out/delivery place of the area. But whether you it eat there or eat it at home- you should seriously consider eating their food. And when you do, let 'em know you found out about them in a favorable review on Sowal.com
Enjoy,
Geo
great review, we'll try it out with the kids this week, while we're here. GEO, great point about how they treated the kids -
thanks for the review, look forward to more
Beach Fanatic
FInally made it to Ken's for lunch yesterday for that country fried steak I've been hankering. This may have been THE VERY BEST Country Gravy & Red Mashed Potatoes (both divinely rich & creamy), and CFS I've ever had in my whole long life. 
Got to meet Brandon & Lori who treated us like royal family!
FYI Folks... there is additional parking behind the building (which I had not been aware of). Plus the prices are very reasonable.
SO GO to Ken's ASAP!!!
Got to meet Brandon & Lori who treated us like royal family!
FYI Folks... there is additional parking behind the building (which I had not been aware of). Plus the prices are very reasonable.
SO GO to Ken's ASAP!!!
SoWal Guide
FInally made it to Ken's for lunch yesterday for that country fried steak I've been hankering. This may have been THE VERY BEST Country Gravy & Red Mashed Potatoes (both divinely rich & creamy), and CFS I've ever had in my whole long life.
Got to meet Brandon & Lori who treated us like royal family!
FYI Folks... there is additional parking behind the building (which I had not been aware of). Plus the prices are very reasonable.
SO GO to Ken's ASAP!!!
Duneahhh - did you have to go talking all about country fried steak and mashed potatoes? geeeeeeeeeeeeez. now I gotta go eat there immediately.
This kind of restaurant is becoming more and more what I appreciate most. Just good food. bring it on. can't wait to go!
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